The Italian Lakes

Written By Phebe Huth

A see-and-be-seen luxury oasis.

Written by Hayley Bloomingdale

Once home to the gilded palaces of the Italian royals and elite, the Italian lake region is now home to some of the world’s grandest villas and hotels making it the very top of most travelers' dream list.  Set against the foothills of the Alps in northern Italy, Lake Como has three branches that intersect into the towns of Bellagio, Menaggio and Varenna with boat service being the preferred travel method to jet around.  In addition to Lake Como, Lake Garda is another must-visit spot in the region

Credit: Dico Baskoro

 

Credit: Emilia Wickstead

EXPERT TIPS

Emilia Wickstead

Born and raised in New Zealand, fashion designer Emilia Wickstead established her eponymous label in 2008. Originally founding her business with a unique made-to-measure model, Emilia’s collections now comprise seasonal ready-to-wear, homeware and bridalwear, as well as bespoke and made-to-order services. Her designs have been showcased at London Fashion Week since 2011.

Known for her fluent use of colour and exacting craftsmanship, Emilia Wickstead’s designs effortlessly combine tradition and the romance of bygone eras with refined silhouettes and contemporary twists to create timeless, elegant clothing with a clear point of distinction.

IN FLIGHT ESSENTIALS: I always carry three essentials: Manuka honey from New Zealand, Emma Lewisham’s Supernatural Face Oil, and an Emilia Wickstead sweater so that I’m prepared for all temperatures.

PACKING TIPS: I try to be a minimalist packer but always end up packing too much. I design a vacation capsule every summer, specifically for the traveling woman, but also to ensure that my own holiday wardrobe is pre-planned in advance.

THE FILM TO WATCH/BOOK TO READ BEFORE DEPARTURE: : The Talented Mr Ripley, for the ultimate holiday style inspiration

FAVORITE HOTEL: Passalacqua – what the De Santis family have created there is so special. It’s like stepping into another world. I was thrilled to collaborate with Valentina de Santis on a colourful swim and resortwear collection this summer, which is available at Passalacqua and via their website, Sense of Lake.

MEMORABLE MEALS: Harry’s Bar in Cernobbio for elegant outdoor dining right on the lake.

THE DRINK TO ORDER: Always champagne.

BAR OF CHOICE: The bar in the Winter Garden at Passalacqua is the most magical setting for evening aperitivo.

FAVORITE SHOP: The shop at Grand Hotel Tremezzo has the most extraordinary selection of beautifully curated things.

WELLNESS TREATMENT TO TRY: A facial by Seed to Skin at the newly opened spa at Passalacqua

 

Along this coastal stretch, storybook scenes extend in all directions…

 

STAY

The only problem with a luxury trip to the Italian lakes is choosing where to stay. There are so many fantastic options, you’re genuinely spoilt for choice: from grand spots with widespread lake views and incredible people watching to more secluded and intimate hotels and villas, there is something for solo travelers, honeymooners, and families alike.

Featured
Passalacqua
Passalacqua

Address: Via Besana 59 Moltrasio, Lago di Como, 22010 Italy
Phone:+3903144311
Website: passalacqua.it

The sister property to the Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Passalacqua is a relative newcomer on the scene, opening in 2022 to much fanfare – and with good reason. Set in an 18th century villa that was once home to the composer Bellini, the De Santis family have transformed this chic spot into an oasis of style and charm complete with Murano chandeliers and original frescoes. From breakfast in the rose garden, walks among the cedars and magnolias on the properties’ seven acres, the Barbara Sturm-stocked spa and even a secret getaway tunnel that provides a direct route to the marina: this is the current hot spot of Como!

Villa d’ Este
Villa d’ Este

Address: Via Regina, 40, 22012 Cernobbio Italy
Phone: +390313481
Website: villadeste.com

The Villa d’Este was built in 1568 as a summer residence for a wealthy Italian cardinal and has since played host to everyone from Elizabeth Taylor, Alfred Hitchcock, Lady Gaga and, of course, Como’s most famous resident, George Clooney, who uses the hotel as his “local.” Set among 25 acres of magnificent gardens, the Villa d’Este is so treasured in Italy that it was declared a world heritage site. With 152 renaissance-style rooms, each suite is uniquely and elegantly designed and the hotel staff are impeccable and ready to cater to your every whim. Don’t miss the mosaic garden and the hotel pool which sits on a platform in the lake.

Grand Hotel A Villa Feltrinelli
Grand Hotel A Villa Feltrinelli

Address: Via Rimembranza 38-40, 25084 Gargnano, Italy 
Phone:+390365798000
Website: villafeltrinelli.com

The Grand Hotel A Villa Feltrinelli is the perfect spot for those who want to be transported to the elegant and grand hotels of the past. Villa Feltrinelli is an elegant pink palazzo on the serene waters of Lake Garda with no branding or large signage out front and classic, old-school style service. The three villas dotted around the pristine gardens offer large rooms with even larger beds made up in the finest Frette linens. Don’t miss lunch on their terrace overlooking the verdant lawns and the still lake and dinner in their Michelin-starred restaurant – the tasting menu here is delectable and makes this the best spot in town.

Grand Hotel Tremezzo
Grand Hotel Tremezzo

Address: Via Regina, 8, Tremezzina, Lake Como, Italy 22016
Phone:+39034442491
Website: grandhoteltremezzo.com

The decadent Grand Hotel Tremezzo is a mainstay on the Lake Como hotel scene since opening in 1910. Set a bit back from the lake, the hotel somehow manages to be both grand and impressive while also maintaining an intimate and cozy feeling. From an indoor swim-in, swim-out pool, an outdoor pool, a spa stocked with Santa Maria Novella products, a glorious main restaurant and countless tucked away bars, this hotel is the perfect place for first timers to the lake. Don’t miss a lake excursion on their beautiful vintage wooden boat and a swim in the lake followed by sunning in their stunning orange and white loungers.

 

SAVOR

You can’t go wrong dining in any of the chic hotels in the area but when you’re craving something a little more local and want to try the “cucinda lariana” or just want a stroll through town, there are a whole host of options from classic fish tavernas to simple, but delicious, trattorias.

  • ristorantegattonero.it
    Address: Via Della Liberta 69, 22012 Cernobbio, Italy
    Phone: +39031512042

    The ideal spot for a romantic dinner or special occasion, Il Gatto Nero is a candlelit rustic-chic spot with fantastic lake views and even better people watching. Don’t miss out on the pasta with rabbit ragout sauce or the lobster spaghetti.

  • lasperanzina.it
    Address: Via Dante, 16, 25019 Sirmione BS
    Phone: +390309906292

    With views over the lake and the castle, La Speranzina is a romantic Mediterranean-style restaurant that offers various tasting menu options featuring elegant dishes and plenty of local flavors. An excellent wine cellar and selection of champagnes make this a great spot for date night.

  • grandhoteltremezzo.com
    Address: Via Regina, 8, Tremezzina, Lake Como, Italy 22016
    Phone: +39034442491

     The elegant La Terrazza restaurant is set within the stunning grounds of the Grand Hotel Tremezzo and boasts cuisine made by executive chef, Osvaldo Presazzi who worked and trained with Italy’s infamous Gualtiero Marchesi.  La Terrazza is the only restaurant in the world offering some of Marchesi’s most famous dishes including his “dropping di pesce” tribute to Jackson Pollock and his “Raviolo aperto” scallop, ginger and butter dish.  This is one spot not to miss!

  • ristorantelatortuga.it/
    Address: Via XXIV Maggio 5, 25084 Gargnano
    Phone: +0396571251

    A proud holder of a Michelin star for over 40 years, La Tortuga is a small, charming spot located on a square overlooking the harbor of Gargnano.  Expect dishes full of local flavors and specials that highlight the seafood and fish from the lake.

  • locanda-sanvigilio.it
    Address: Punta San Vigilio, 37016 Garda, Italy
    Phone: +390457256688

    A lovely option for lunch or dinner on Lake Garda, Locanda Sanvigilio has tables on a stunning terrace under the awning of an ancient fig tree and offers up Italian classics in a relaxed and romantic setting.  The perfect place for an aperitivo and dinner under the setting sun.

  • ristorantemateria.it
    Address: Via Cinque Giornate 32, Cernobbio 22012, Como, Italy

    Phone: +390312075548

    Materia is a Michelin-starred restaurant tucked away on a sleepy side street that offers exceptional quality local cuisine with a global and modern twist. Signature dishes include the linguine with butter, sea urchin with calf brain mousse and a bone marrow gelato.

Credit: La Terrazza Gualtiero Marchesi

Credite: La Speranzina

 

EXPLORE

  • museosetacomo.com

    A must stop for any design or fashion lovers, Como’s silk museum covers every step of the silk production process as well as showcasing the local history of silk in the region.

  • villacarlotta.it

    Take a boat ride over to this 17th century villa turned museum and take in the intricate frescoes, neoclassical sculptures and stunning architecture.  Plan for a lovely stroll through the 20-acre terraced garden and enjoy the arches citrus tree tunnels that surround the property.

  • For a true taste of medieval Italian life, visit Borgo Corenno Plinio, a small town nicknamed the village of “1000 steps.”  Explore the medieval castle and the 12-century Saint Thomas Becket of Canterbury church and follow the narrow lanes to the top of the village to look out over the red-roofed buildings for a magnificent view.

Credit: Villa Carlotta

 

Mantero

SHOP

Mantero

A classic Italian brand, a stop into Mantero is a must for any fashion forward travel for their beautiful silk scarves, wraps and ties.  Word has it that Mantero makes scarves for Dior and Chanel too so you know you’re getting the best quality available! 

 

WELLNESS TIP

Lefay Resort and Spa

A day out at Lefay Resort and Spa on Lake Garda will rebalance the body and rediscover energy through their world-renowned programs which blend Eastern and Western therapies.

Credit: Lefay Resort and Spa

 
 

STYLE TIPS

Easy to pack and even easier to wear, a two piece set from Dolce & Gabbana can take you from boat cruise to sunset cocktails.

Don’t even think of leaving for Italy without a trust pair of shades, as much to shade your eyes as to shield them while people watching! 

A neutral bag that goes with every outfit you packed is a must on any holiday. Bonus points for a cross body strap that make this one perfect for a day of sightseeing and boat hopping. 

visualsoflukas

 

LOCAL FLAVORS

Cherry Tomato Tarte Tatin

from Passalacqua Chef, Viviana Varese

INGREDIENTS

1 roll of puff pastry 

300g cherry tomatoes 

20g sugar 

oregano

basil

lemon peel

salt

evo oil

DIRECTIONS

For the cherry tomatoes:

  1. Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes.

  2. Take a 24-cm-diameter baking dish and place a sheet of baking paper on it.

  3. Place all the cut cherry tomatoes, season with a drizzle of oil, salt, sugar, spices and lemon peel. 

  4. Bake at 180° for 10 minutes.

For the tarte tatin:

  1. Prepare a baking dish. Place the cherry tomatoes very close together and all over the baking dish.

  2. Cover them with puff pastry, prick with a fork and bake at 180° in a ventilated oven for 25 minutes. 

  3. Once cool, turn the pie out onto a plate and decorate it with herbs as taste.

 

ON OUR RADAR

The Carlton hotel by Rocco Forte is set to open in nearby Milan in 2025.

 
 

IMMERSE YOURSELF

PLAYLIST: Discover our Lake como playlist, available on Spotify

PLANNING SERVICES

Let Glimpse founder Jordan Rhodes help you plan your next vacation.

As an advisor independently affiliated with Brownell Travel, a luxury, Forbes endorsed, Virtuoso Agency, Jordan has a whole team helping plan her clients’ vacations.

Phebe Huth
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